Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin (Russian: Александр Сергеевич Пушкин) was a pivotal figure in Russian literature, heralded as the greatest poet of the Romantic era and often considered the founder of modern Russian literature. Born into the Russian nobility in Moscow on June 6, 1799, Pushkin's lineage was notable; his father, Sergey Lvovich Pushkin, hailed from an ancient noble family, while his maternal great-grandfather, Abram Petrovich Gannibal, was an African nobleman kidnapped and later integrated into the Russian imperial court.

Pushkin's literary journey commenced with the publication of his first poem at the tender age of 15. By the time he graduated from the Tsarskoye Selo Lyceum, he had already made significant strides in the literary establishment, particularly with his controversial poem "Ode to Liberty". His tenure at the Lyceum, however, also marked the beginning of his political troubles, leading to his exile by Emperor Alexander I.

Despite challenges, including strict surveillance by the political police and restrictions on publishing, Pushkin's creativity flourished. He authored the celebrated play Boris Godunov, and his novel in verse, Eugene Onegin, was serialized between 1825 and 1832. Tragically, Pushkin's life was cut short when he was fatally wounded in a duel on February 10, 1837, by Georges-Charles de Heeckeren d'Anthès, a French officer, over allegations concerning Pushkin's wife.

Pushkin's legacy is vast, including narrative and lyrical poems, short stories, and plays. His pioneering use of vernacular speech in poetry set a precedent, contributing to a distinct style marked by drama, romance, and satire that would influence Russian literature for generations.